problem-solving

noun

prob·​lem-solv·​ing ˈprä-bləm-ˌsäl-viŋ 

-ˌsȯl-

variants or problem solving

: the act or process of finding a solution to a problem

Instead of prodding students through remedial drills and worksheets, teachers began exposing them to heavy loads of literature, research, problem-solving and analytical discussion …

—Hilary Stout

Invention, practical problem solving, improvisation and innovation are all part and parcel of one another.

—Jane Jacobs

[Vickie] Chase said she has taken her scouts to various artificial rock climbing walls. … "With indoor climbing, it's easy to get a grip," she said. "There's a lot more obstacles on a natural surface rock. It can be slippery, and you have to utilize your own problem-solving skills to make it to the top."

—David Ashby

Examples of problem-solving in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s this big distinction between problem-solving and theory building. — Quanta Magazine, 20 Aug. 2026

The leader still provides direction and initiates the problem-solving process. — Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Those kinds of problem-solving and listening skills took Brian Fork on a similarly exploratory career path. — Douglas A. Hicks, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2026

While burning through so much of their pitching depth, the Cubs have demonstrated persistence, flexibility and problem-solving skills. — Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 30 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for problem-solving

• absolving
• devolving
• dissolving
• evolving
• involving
• resolving
• revolving
• solving